Best Places to Visit in Bhandara, Maharashtra [Updated-2025]

Places to Visit in Bhandara, Maharashtra

Bhandara district in Maharashtra—often called the “District of Lakes”—is a hidden gem with rich wildlife, history, and natural beauty. Here are the top places to visit:

Nature & Wildlife

1. Koka Wildlife Sanctuary

   • A protected forest (~20 km from Bhandara) featuring tigers, leopards, sloth bears, gaurs, deer, and migratory birds that arrive in winter

   • Open sunrise to sunset; regular buses from Bhandara bus stand

2. Umred‑Pauni‑Karhandla Wildlife Sanctuary

   • Shared with Nagpur district, it’s home to tigers, leopards, sloth bears, gaur, deer, and wild dogs — ideal for wildlife safaris and birdwatching

3. Nagzira Wildlife Sanctuary

   • Spanning Bhandara and Gondia, hosts Bengal tigers, leopards, sloth bears, gaur, sambar, and 166 bird species; attracts ~30,000 visitors annually

Dams & Lakes

4. Rawanwadi Dam

   • A tranquil picnic spot about 90 km from Nagpur; picnic-friendly with boating and rich birdlife, especially at sunset

5. Indirasagar Dam (Gosikhurd Project)

   • One of India’s largest earth dams; great for sunset views near the reservoir, though steps may need maintenance

6. Korambhi Temple + Nearby Dam

   • Beautiful riverside temple with adjacent scenic dam—combine spirituality with nature

Historical & Cultural Sites

7. Ambagarh Fort (Tumsar Taluka)

   • Early 18th-century hill fort offering panoramic landscape views — a treat for history buffs

8. Pauni (Maha Samadhi Bhumi & Temples)

   • Referred to as the ‘Kashi of Vidarbha,’ Pauni is rich in Buddhist heritage and home to multiple historical temples

9. Shree Panch Bhooteshwar Mahakaal Mandir

   • A 350-year-old Shiva temple in Madhav Nagar, recently restored and reopened in 2024, regaining its cultural and spiritual significance

10. Korambhi Devi Temple

    • Ancient temple of Goddess Korambhi with forested surroundings — spiritually serene and picturesque

Urban & Family-Friendly Attractions

11. Shree Ganesh Mandir

    • A well-kept Ganesha temple in Bhandara city, vibrant during festivals and an emotional blend of spirituality and community 

12. Bhandara Science Centre

    • Interactive exhibits and learning modules — perfect for families and school visits

13. Bhandara District Museum

    • Exhibits regional history and artifacts, offering a deep dive into local culture — great for history enthusiasts

Quick Reference Table

Tips for Travelers

• Best Time to Visit: October–March (nice weather), winter (birding), post-monsoon (lush greenery).

• Transportation: Bhandara is well-connected by road and rail (nearest airport: Nagpur). Within the district, personal vehicles or hired cabs are most convenient.

• Wildlife Tours: Book in advance and carry binoculars, a camera with zoom, and wear muted clothing. Start early for the best chances to spot wildlife.

Bhandara is a delightful blend—lively dams, thrilling wildlife, historic forts, and peaceful temples—all waiting to be discovered